Scientific Method and Life Science Concepts

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering basic concepts of the scientific method and biology.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction or proposed explanation for a scientific question or observation.

Independent Variable

The factor in an experiment that is intentionally changed or manipulated by the experimenter.

Dependent Variable

The factor that is measured or observed in an experiment to evaluate the effect of the independent variable.

Constants

The experimental conditions and variables that are kept identical across all trial groups.

Controls

The group or condition used as a baseline for comparison where the independent variable is not applied.

Qualitative Data

Descriptive, non-numerical observations collected during an investigation.

Quantitative Data

Numerical information, measurements, or counts gathered during an investigation.

Growth

The process of increasing in physical size, mass, or cell number in an organism.

Stimulus

A change or signal in an organism's environment that evokes a physiological or behavioral response.

Homeostasis

The process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

Adaptation

An inherited characteristic or trait that enhances an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.

Development

The process of structural transformation, differentiation, and change an organism undergoes through its life cycle.

Response

An action, movement, or physiological change exhibited by an organism in reaction to a stimulus.

Energy

The capacity to do work or drive metabolic processes within living organisms.

Evolution

The change in inherited traits and genetic characteristics of populations over successive generations.